Discussion

Ring-a-ding-ding cocktail bars

I'm looking for a great mid-century type cocktail bar in San Francisco. The Redwood Room used to be Sinatra hip until the whole Clift was re-done like Studio 54 or something. Where can you get a decent Martini or Manhattan with some ring-a-ding-ding atmosphere?

Wouldnt yu say the avg age is a little low at ZZ/Haight Street in general to get sort of a 50s atmosphere? Or does that not matter to the OP?

I dunno what decade I'd call Bix, but how about those guys? ... and I think Bixis harder to find than ZZ. I also think Bix has better drinks than ZZ.

Alembic near ZZ also has better cocktails IMHO, but again I dont thinkit has the atmos the OP suggests, but if he wants to focus just on the booze,it's excellent in the Haight.

Top of the Mark? Havent been in the while. I dont really like the Tonga Room.

Maybe one of the other big hotel bars? [Ritz bar was really quite when I was there last, St. Regis, W have a different vibe, Ducca? Was only there once on aquiet night ... might be worth checking out. Maxfield's? Havent been in years.I have not been to CLOCK BAR yet ... any feedback whether they'd fit the bill?]

I think the Zam Zam is a great rec; in theory I think it's supposed to have a zoot suit focus, but that translates on any given night into a general avoidance of looking modern, and people wear anything from suits to costumes from eras before the 60s.

I get much better service when I wear a dapper hat than if I just show up in whatever I'm wearing, which I view as a good thing in this particular case.

I always think of Zam Zam as sort of a dirt bag bar, and I say that in the most loving manner as I love Zam Zam.

For low end ring a ding ding...How about Tony Nik's in North Beach (Stockton at Green)

I use to love the Owl Tree - always Frank/Dean on the juke box. I haven't been in since the new owners opened but I did peak my head inside. It's lost all it's kitsch but looks a bit swankier. It's on Post at the corner of Taylor

Don't forget Tosca in North Beach.

I can't really help you with uber swank ring a ding as that's not really my scene.